Isuzu out as cup parntners

By Tom Blackett

THE Football Association are putting the finishing touches to unveiling a new title sponsor for the FA Trophy and FA Vase after Isuzu UK surprisingly pulled the plug on their deal after three-and-a-half years.

FAREWELL: Southend United became the final Isuzu FA Trophy winners back in May

PICTURE: Alamy

The NLP exclusively confirmed on Thursday that the motor company are not carrying on with their sponorship of Non-League’s two premier competitions following the conclusion of the 2025-26 campaign.

It comes just over a year after The FA announced that Isuzu had signed a three-year extension, which was due to run until the end of next season. On being

approached for comment by The NLP, Isuzu confirmed speculation that the 2025-26 campaign was indeed its last working within the game.

It’s understood The FA are reviewing the sponsorship going forward.

Proud

An Isuzu statement read: “Isuzu UK can confirm that it will not be continuing its sponsorship of the FA Trophy and FA Vase following the conclusion of the 2025-2026 campaign.

“Over recent years, the partnership has provided a fantastic platform to support grassroots and non-league football across England, and we are incredibly proud of the positive impact it has delivered for clubs, players, volunteers and supporters.

“We would like to thank The Football Association, participating clubs and the wider football community for their support throughout our sponsorship and wish the FA Trophy and FA Vase every success in the future.”

The timing of the announcement come as something of a surprise given that both competitions are already under way for the 2026-27 season.

When, back in July, The FA revealed the draws for the early rounds of the competition, there was no mention of Isuzu but leagues were still referring to the sponsor in results last weekend.

Unusually, no communication of the parting of ways had been offered from either Isuzu or the FA until prompted by The NLP.

Upon further inspection, it was evident that Isuzu’s name and logo had been indeed omitted from official FA documents relating to the Trophy and Vase and the website.

Southend United were the final Isuzu FA Trophy winners back in May, beating Wealdstone on penalties at Wembley, while AFC Stoneham lifted the FA Vase after also overcoming Cockfosters in a shootout.